Ahli's schedule included meetings with Jade Meyanyieam, president of the Thai Orchid Exporters' Association, and officials from the Thai Fruit and Vegetable Producers' Association.

"This trip was organised to showcase DFC's advanced facilities to high-profile members of the Thai plant and flower sector," Ahli said.

"We had some very positive meetings and the representatives expressed a great deal of interest in the cool-chain facility that we provide for our tenants."

Thailand grows more than 1,000 species of orchids, ranging from the common violet bloom to the rare and highly prized white orchid. The skills of specialist growers have turned orchid production into a major export industry.

Ahli is convinced that DFC offers the perfect storage facilities for importing such precious plants.

"Our cool-chain system ensures the perfect environment to protect delicate blooms such as orchids and the system is maintained right through the import and export process," he said.

DFC's cool-chain method uses refrigerated transfer pallets that keep perishable produce at the right temperature. The chain includes automated handling equipment, specially designed transfer vehicles, temperature-controlled air locks and climate-controlled storage zones.

"Our process has been specially designed to maximise shelf life and ensure that flowers and plants remain in perfect condition, whether they are being imported for the local market or re-exported further afield," said Ahli.

DFC is located near Dubai Airport. The United Arab Emirates is well served with flights to and from Thailand. Emirates has two direct flights each way every day while Thai Airways International has three daily direct flights to Dubai.